Franco Rocchi

Engine specialist, former aircraft engineer. Also worked on the unsuccessful Life project in the early 1990's. Rocchi was one of Enzo Ferrari's most trusted engineers who began working there in 1949. He was loyal too, as he didn't join Hill, Chiti and Tavoni when they set up the ATS outfit in the early 1960's. Franco was a key influence on Mauro Forghieri and they both worked on the Ferrari 312B3 car design. However it was Rocchi's prowess as an engine designer that saw him enjoy the most success and influence - the team taking many wins (and championships) in sportscars and Formula 1. Prior to starting racing, Rocchi worked at the Reggiane aircraft company but joined Ferrari on the suggestion of his former aircraft colleague Aurelio Lampredi. Rocchi retired from Ferrari in 1979 after developing heart disease and became an artist instead, but kept his links to the sport through consultancy. Bar a brief - and unsuccessful - engine attempt with the Life F1 car (the W12 engine), Rocchi didn't have a direct involvement again in the sport thereafter.